Mongolian Chicken

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, easy to whip up, and guaranteed to satisfy, Mongolian Chicken is the answer! Imagine crispy, tender chicken pieces coated in a rich, savory sauce that’s perfectly sweet with just the right amount of kick. It’s like a homemade takeout experience that’ll make you wonder why you ever ordered in. This dish has everything you love about Chinese-American cuisine—sweet, salty, and a little spicy, all wrapped up in one deliciously sticky package. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer!

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner, impressing guests, or simply indulging in comfort food, Mongolian Chicken is always a hit. It’s packed with bold, satisfying flavors, and you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds (or thirds). Let’s dive in and make this meal happen!

Why You’ll Love Mongolian Chicken

Here’s why this dish is sure to become a favorite:

Flavor-packed Sauce

The sauce is the heart and soul of this dish! With a mix of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and just a hint of heat, it’s a perfect balance of sweet and savory, with a little punch from the red pepper flakes.

Crispy Chicken

The chicken is crispy on the outside but juicy on the inside, thanks to a quick fry before being tossed in the flavorful sauce. It’s the perfect texture combination!

Quick and Easy

This recipe is simple to make, with just a few steps to follow. You don’t need any fancy ingredients, just pantry staples, and you can have a delicious dinner in under 30 minutes.

Customizable

If you prefer a milder version, you can adjust the spice level. Not a fan of fried chicken? You can easily use grilled chicken instead. This recipe is flexible to suit your tastes.

A Crowd-Pleaser

Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining friends, Mongolian Chicken is always a hit. It’s the perfect balance of flavors, and people will be asking for the recipe!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this irresistible dish:

• Chicken Breast or Thighs: Chicken breasts work best for a tender, juicy bite. You can also use thighs for more flavor.
• Cornstarch: This helps create that crispy coating on the chicken.
• Vegetable Oil: For frying the chicken to perfection.
• Soy Sauce: A rich base for the savory sauce.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness that balances out the soy sauce and spices.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the sauce that aromatic, savory kick.
• Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a warm, spicy note to the sauce.
• Red Pepper Flakes: A little heat to bring the sauce to life.
• Green Onions: For garnish, adding a bit of freshness and color to the dish.
• Sesame Oil: A splash of sesame oil enhances the flavor and gives it that signature Asian twist.

(Note: Exact measurements are provided in the recipe card above!)

Instructions

Ready to make this deliciously sticky and flavorful Mongolian Chicken? Let’s get started!

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in cornstarch, making sure they are well-coated. This will give them that crispy, golden exterior when fried.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken in batches, frying until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the sesame oil. Sauté the garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the soy sauce, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Toss the Chicken in the Sauce

Return the crispy chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce, making sure each piece is coated with that delicious glaze. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes to absorb all the flavors.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the Mongolian chicken to a serving dish and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve it over steamed rice or alongside your favorite vegetables.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Dig in and enjoy this sweet, savory, and spicy dish! The crispy chicken, combined with the bold, flavorful sauce, is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 380
Total Fat: 14g

• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
  Cholesterol: 85mg
  Sodium: 830mg
  Total Carbohydrates: 27g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 17g
  Protein: 33g
  Vitamin A: 5% DV
  Vitamin C: 2% DV
  Calcium: 3% DV
  Iron: 10% DV

How to Serve Mongolian Chicken

Mongolian Chicken is perfect when paired with a variety of delicious sides. Here are some ideas:

With Steamed Rice

The classic pairing—serve this flavorful chicken over a bed of steamed white or brown rice. The rice soaks up all that savory sauce, making every bite even more satisfying.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

Add a healthy and colorful side with stir-fried veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas. The crisp vegetables complement the rich chicken perfectly.

With Noodles

Try serving it with some noodles for a more hearty meal. Toss cooked noodles in a little extra soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions for a simple, tasty side.

With a Fresh Salad

A light, crisp salad with a sesame dressing is a great way to balance the richness of the chicken and add some freshness to the meal.

Additional Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store the chicken in the fridge until you’re ready to fry it and keep the sauce in a separate container.
• Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the red pepper flakes or omit them altogether. You can also add some chili paste if you like it spicier.
• Make It Healthier: For a healthier version, try baking the chicken instead of frying it, or use a non-stick spray to reduce the oil.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A1: Yes! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this dish. They have more flavor and remain juicy even after frying.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A2: Yes, you can prep the chicken and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then fry the chicken and toss it in the sauce when you’re ready to serve.

Q3: Can I make this recipe spicier?
A3: Absolutely! If you like more heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add some fresh chili peppers to the sauce.

Q4: How can I make this dish vegetarian?
A4: You can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version. Be sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture before frying.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Q6: Can I use a different sweetener instead of brown sugar?
A6: Yes, you can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute for brown sugar, but the flavor may vary slightly.

Q7: Can I freeze this dish?
A7: While the chicken can be frozen, it’s best to store the sauce separately. To reheat, thaw the chicken and sauce, then heat them together on the stovetop.

Q8: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A8: Reheat on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure the chicken is evenly coated in the sauce.

Q9: Can I make this recipe without frying the chicken?
A9: Yes, you can bake or pan-sear the chicken for a lighter version. Just be sure to cook it until golden and crispy before tossing it in the sauce.

Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Yes! If you’re feeding a crowd, feel free to double the recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary.

Conclusion

Mongolian Chicken is the perfect combination of crispy, tender chicken and a sweet, savory, and slightly spicy sauce. It’s an easy, flavorful dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re craving takeout or looking to impress with a homemade dinner, this recipe has got you covered. Grab your ingredients and get ready to make something seriously delicious! Happy cooking!

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